Custom Ore Generation Mechanics

The core mechanic of Custom Ore Generation revolves around its highly configurable XML files. These files dictate every detail of how ores and other blocks are generated.

Distribution Types

Custom Ore Generation offers several methods for distributing blocks throughout the world:

• Cluster: This is the default vanilla distribution type, where ores appear in small, somewhat spherical groups.
• Vein: This distribution creates long, branching deposits of ore, mimicking realistic geological veins. Biome-specific vein generation is possible by including a BiomeType tag within the Veins configuration.
• Cloud: Ores are generated in larger, more diffuse 'cloud-like' formations.
• Substitute: This powerful feature allows any existing block type in the world to be replaced with another during generation. For example, gravel could be replaced with stone, or specific types of stone could be substituted for other materials.
• StandardGen: This likely refers to a general or default generation method, often used as a base for other configurations.

Configuration Files

The mod's behavior is entirely controlled by its configuration.

• XML Config File: This is the primary configuration file, written in XML, containing all the detailed rules for ore generation. It supports advanced features like conditional branches and mathematical expressions.
• Options File(s): These are plain text files that provide a simpler way for players to adjust certain features defined in the main XML config without directly editing the complex XML structure.

Custom Ore Generation comes with a standard configuration that supports vanilla ores and a variety of mod-added ores, biomes, and dimensions.

For full control, users typically copy CustomOreGen_Config_Default.xml to CustomOreGen_Config.xml and modify it. To enable custom configurations and prevent interference from standard settings, users can delete default import statements and add an <OptionalImport file='modules/custom/*.xml'/> statement within the 'Import Custom Configs' block.

All configuration is handled server-side, meaning that for single-player or LAN worlds, the integrated server handles it, and for true multiplayer worlds, the stand-alone server manages the generation.

Debugging features are also available to assist with configuration experimentation.